Travel is one of the most common ways people encounter bed bugs.
When you arrive at a hotel or motel:
- Place your suitcase in the bath tub until you inspect the luggage stand and the room. The smooth surface makes it hard for bed bugs to climb or hide.
- Keep the luggage stand away from the wall.
- Pull back the bedding at the head of the bed and look for bugs, small black dots (their poop), or blood stains.
- Check the seams of the mattress and box spring.
- If you see signs of bed bugs, tell hotel staff and ask for another room.
When you return home:
- Unpack your luggage in a location outside your bedroom.
- Wash all clothing right away.
- Inspect your suitcase before storing it.
For more information, watch the Travel Tips video or read Bed Bug Prevention Methods.